Smart Growth

"Smart Growth" refers to urban development that does not foster sprawl, and at the same time promotes lifestyles that are healthful for both the residents and the community.  The adverse effects of sprawling suburban growth are now well known, affecting nearly every aspect of our lives:  traffic congestion, poor air quality, loss of farm land, public budget struggles, deteriorating health, and many others.  Research has shown a direct connection between Smart Growth urban design features and improved public health. (Refer to the LEED report "Public Health and the Built Environment" prepared in May 2006.)

The Village will be an excellent example of Smart Growth because of its location within an existing urban area.  Even better, it is replacing an abandoned institutional function with a vibrant new neighborhood.  Better yet, we have the advantage of very close proximity to Light Rail and to Sac State, the place of employment for most Village residents.  This is an urban planning "win, win, win, win". 

Presently, the area surrounding the Village is industrial in nature.  In fact, it is the closest area to the City's central core that is industrially zoned.  But the Village is the first step (a large one) that will ultimately change that.  Numerous other private residential developments are likely to follow our lead on properties nearby.  With residential density, businesses that support the people living there will soon follow.  An entire new community beyond our Village boundary will start with the Village.